Lexus Set to Climb Pikes Peak With the RC F GT Concept

2015 Lexus RC F GT Concept (Credit: © Lexus)

Back in 2013, Lexus competed in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with modified versions of its IS F model dubbed the IS F CCS-R. Now, with the 2015 edition of the famed hill climb right around the corner, Lexus has announced it will run a concept version of its hot RC F up the hill and through its 156 twists.

This new hill climb monster, which Lexus has named the RC F GT Concept, is surprisingly stock for this competition. Under its hood lies the RC F’s 5.0-liter V-8 powerplant that has various states of tune available to match the course it’s driving on and the regulations of said event. There is no mention of its peak horsepower, but its base output is the same 467 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque as the production RC F.

2015 Lexus RC F GT Concept (Credit: © Lexus)

Where the RC F GT Concept proves its mettle is in the weight it’s dropped. According to Lexus, this concept checks in at just 3,130 pounds, which is 828 pounds less than the base RC F. This weight loss is thanks to the use of carbon fiber for the hood, roof, trunk lid, door panels, front and rear over fenders, front canards, rear spoiler, interior trim, and the dashboard. Lexus also eliminated the glass and replaced it with polycarbonate.

While there are no plans to manufacture this concept, Lexus was clear that this concept will help shape the future of the RC F and the rest of Lexus’ F brand.

Stay tuned to see how well this lightweight version of the RC F handles the treacherous hill climb. We’ll have the results for you on June 28th.